Teachers in Kenya will transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA) medical scheme starting December 1, following an agreement between the government and teachers’ unions.
The move affects over 400,000 teachers and their dependents, replacing the Minet Kenya cover that has provided nationwide medical services for years.
The decision, finalised on November 10, 2025, follows extensive discussions, consultations, and parliamentary review to ensure a smooth changeover.
It comes as the Sh20 billion Minet Kenya contract expires on November 30, guaranteeing teachers continued access to medical care without interruptions.
During a key meeting chaired by Acting Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Chief Executive Officer Evaleen Mitei, union leaders and officials worked to address educators’ concerns ahead of the transition.
The talks focused on improving coverage and resolving issues that had long frustrated teachers under the Minet arrangement.
Critical topics included expanding group life cover, removing pre-authorisation requirements, and ensuring transparency about benefits and the hospitals within the new network. Teachers had previously raised complaints about delays, limited access, and unclear service procedures under Minet.
Mitei said the transfer will take place through the Public Officers Medical Scheme Fund (POMSF), which is managed by SHA.
“All teachers will transition to the Social Health Authority beginning December 1, following a deal reached between KUPPET, KNUT, KUSNET, and the State insurer,” she said.
She added that the initiative is part of wider reforms to unify medical coverage for public officers, aiming for efficiency and accountability in health service delivery.
Union representatives welcomed the arrangement, describing it as a forward step towards accessible and fair healthcare for all teachers. They highlighted that the change will prevent service interruptions that often occur when insurance providers change.
KUPPET Secretary-General Akelo Misori said the union had long sought a scheme that cuts red tape and widens hospital access, particularly for educators in remote and underserved regions.
KNUT Secretary-General Collins Oyuu emphasised that SHA’s framework promotes transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
“This agreement safeguards the health rights of our members. We are optimistic that this new structure will eliminate inefficiencies that have long plagued the old medical scheme,” Oyuu said.
TSC assured teachers that all measures are in place for a seamless transition. Mitei noted that a joint technical committee comprising TSC, SHA, and union representatives has been set up to monitor the rollout and ensure effective implementation.
